Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Bread Machine French Bread Loaf Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 2 reviews

This Bread Machine French Bread Loaf recipe combines the convenience of a bread machine with traditional baking techniques to produce a crusty, flavorful French bread. Starting with a slow-fermented preferment for enhanced flavor and texture, this recipe yields two beautiful loaves with a crisp crust and tender crumb, perfect for sandwiches or serving alongside your favorite meals.

  • Total Time: 12 hours 58 minutes
  • Yield: 2 loaves

Ingredients

Preferment

  • 220 grams all purpose flour (about 1 3/4 cup + 1 tablespoon)
  • 1/4 teaspoon bread machine yeast
  • 220 grams cold water (1 cup)

Dough

  • 260 grams warm water (1.1 cups)
  • 520 grams all purpose flour (plus more for shaping)
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon bread machine yeast

For Egg Wash (optional)

  • 1 egg

Instructions

  1. Prepare the preferment: The night before baking, combine the flour, yeast, and cold water in a bowl. Stir until all ingredients are combined. Cover the bowl and let the mixture stand at room temperature for at least 12 hours to develop flavor.
  2. Load the bread machine: Pour the warm water into the bottom of your bread machine. Then add the prepared preferment on top.
  3. Add remaining ingredients: Add the flour, sea salt, and yeast into the bread machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically layering them above the water and preferment.
  4. Start dough cycle: Select the dough cycle on your bread machine and start it. Allow the machine to process the dough fully according to its programmed timing for dough preparation.
  5. Divide and shape dough: Transfer the dough onto a well-floured pastry mat. Divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a round ball and place them seam side down.
  6. Rest the dough: Cover the dough rounds and let them rest for 15 minutes.
  7. Proof in baskets: Dust two 9 x 3-inch oval proofing baskets generously with flour. Shape the dough again and place each piece seam side down into the baskets. Cover and let them rise for 1 hour at room temperature.
  8. Prepare oven and baking equipment: Place a baking stone or steel on the center rack of your oven and an empty cast iron pan on the lower rack. If you don’t have a stone or steel, use a regular sheet pan instead. Preheat the oven to 475°F (246°C).
  9. Score and apply egg wash: Carefully turn the loaves out from the proofing baskets onto a pizza peel lined with parchment paper. Using a baker’s razor or sharp knife, score the tops of the loaves to allow expansion during baking. Beat the egg and brush it over the tops for a glossy finish.
  10. Transfer and steam bake: Using a baker’s peel or an inverted baking sheet, transfer the loaves on parchment into the hot oven. Quickly pour 1 cup of water into the hot cast iron pan to create steam, which helps develop a crisp crust.
  11. Bake: Bake the loaves for 26 to 28 minutes or until golden brown and crusty. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • Using a preferment enhances the bread’s flavor and texture by allowing yeast fermentation to develop overnight.
  • Make sure to dust the proofing baskets well with flour to prevent sticking.
  • The steam created by pouring water into the cast iron pan helps create a crisp, artisan-style crust.
  • The egg wash is optional but recommended for a shiny, golden crust.
  • If you do not have a bread machine, you can knead the dough by hand or with a mixer, then follow the same shaping and baking instructions.
  • Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to maintain crumb integrity.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 12 hours 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 28 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/bread-machine-french-bread-loaf-recipe/